According to Government nutritionist Betsy Baillie, comments like `wash your hands before you eat', and `no throwing that sandwich away' are just a few examples of how teachers play an important role in their student's health.

And she said that teachers also developed their own classroom nutrition and fitness activities which reinforce their subtle comments regarding health.

But now teachers will be rewarded for their healthy deeds thanks to an upcoming competition.

As part of the Health for Success and the Bermuda Diabetes Association Nutrition and Health Incentive Programme, teachers are being invited to share how they make nutrition and fitness come alive for their students.

"We are offering teachers the opportunity to share their talents with your colleagues and win an award,'' she said.

Teachers from all local schools are eligible to enter the contest, even if their school is not involved in the Nutrition and Health Incentive Awards Programme.

The 21 awards up for grabs are: $500 one gold award; $300 five silver awards; $200 five bronze awards; and $100 ten merit awards.

Mrs. Baillie said the competition will be judged by a team comprised of individuals from the Bermuda Diabetes Association, the Health for Success Partnership and educators.

The deadline for entries is Friday, April 30 and all entries must be delivered to either Debby Jones at the Diabetes Education Centre or Mrs. Baillie, Health for Success located in the Department of Health on Point Finger Road in Paget.

Nurses Week Health checks will also be held on Thursday, May 6, at St. George's Square from 11.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. and at Caesar's Pharmacy in Somerset from 4.30 to 6.30 p.m.

On Wednesday, May 5, the public will get the opportunity to witness the competitive spirit and friendly rivalry between the nursing staff at the Island's two hospitals.

A Netball Grudge Match will be held between King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and St. Brendan's Hospital at Bernard Park at 5 p.m.

"This is a hot item,'' joked Ms Hardtman. "There is a fierce rivalry between the hospitals. At the moment St. Brendan's holds the title.

"They are also the basketball champions, but that could change this year.'' A Basketball Grudge Match will be held between the two hospitals on Thursday, May 6 at the Saltus Grammar School at 6 p.m.

The public is welcomed to watch both sports matches.

Nurses Week 1999 will culminate next Friday when the goods collected via the week-long food drive are distributed to the Salvation Army and other needy families.

"Throughout the week there will be bins at the hospital and the various events where the public can donate non-perishable items.'' Anyone interested in attending the Nurses Tea and Fashion Show should call 291-0294 and leave a voice mail message.